So Little Done, So Much to Do: A Clarion Call to Transform Akatsi Senior High Technical School

Mr. Vincent Agumenu, an old student of Akatsi Senior High Technical School (AKAST) who is currently a Research Agronomist, has called on all stakeholders, including his fellow alumni, philanthropists, and government officials, to join him in the journey of transforming his alma mater, Akatsi Senior High Technical School located in the Akatsi South constituency, Volta Region.

From the ground, he poured his experience and the engagement he had with the Headteacher of the school.

The Research Agronomist sharing his words on the state of AKAST and the need to help him transform the school touched on kicking problems the school is facing. He made it clear that the school lacks basic amenities, including inadequate and substandard boarding facilities, accommodation for staff, and school administration infrastructure.

Detailing, Mr. Agumenu said

Following a recent disturbing incident at Akatsi Senior High Technical School (AKAST), where I intervened by transporting an ailing female student to the hospital, I was invited by the school management led by the Headmaster. During our meeting, the Headmaster expressed his profound gratitude for my timely intervention and selfless act of kindness. We engaged in a thorough discussion about the students’ general welfare, and I was disheartened to learn about the numerous challenges that persist despite the school’s best efforts.

The institution’s 33-year history of shaping prominent global icons is commendable, yet it’s alarming to see the lack of basic amenities, including inadequate and substandard boarding facilities, accommodation for staff, and school administration infrastructure. This realization led me to question my pride as an alumnus and prompted me to take decisive action.

The Headmaster lamented the poor infrastructure of the school, describing it as “not fit for purpose.” Some classrooms are uncompleted, others are old and dilapidated, while others are open sheds. The structures accommodating our boarding students are a far cry from what is considered a dormitory in the true sense of the word. The state of infrastructure has made the school unattractive and unappealing to both parents and their wards, leading most students to prefer better-resourced and well-endowed schools.

The recent trend over the past 7-8 years indicates that many students who join our school have room for improvement in their academic foundation, as reflected in their BECE scores. Consequently, they face challenges in achieving their full potential in the WASSCE exams, largely due to the school’s limited capacity to provide adequate educational resources and support.

Despite the efforts of some individuals and groups, including the MP Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, Mr. William Kpormatsi, Mr. Mawuli Ocloo Egos, Hon. Edward Doe Adade, PTA, and ASTOSA, the school continues to face pressing needs. The Headmaster made a special request to alumni to regularly visit the school, get firsthand information on the school’s status, inspire the students, and initiate educational programs such as speech and awards events.

Even amid challenges, Akatsi Senior High Technical School recently excelled in an Inter-school Carpentry Competition organized by Rising Lions in collaboration with the German Chamber of Commerce, Bosch Power Tools, and EJOT, as part of activities marking German Week celebrations in Ghana. Represented by SHS2 students, AKAST emerged victorious against their contenders, including Abor Senior High School, Tsiame Senior High School, and Wovenu Senior High Technical School. This achievement highlights the potential of our students.

AKAST will be presented with Bosch power tools, and the representing students will benefit from an exchange program to Germany. The awards ceremony will take place in the coming days.

I made a commitment to the Headmaster that we would collectively work towards making a meaningful impact, leveraging the support of alumni networks, philanthropic organizations, and government agencies. I now extend a fervent call to action to all stakeholders, including fellow alumni, philanthropists, and government officials, to join me in this noble endeavor. Together, we can provide the necessary resources to ensure comfortable hostels, conducive boarding facilities, and an optimal learning environment for our students.

Let us unite to make a transformative difference in the lives of these young minds and propel Akatsi Senior High Technical School to greatness. I appreciate your attention to this matter and eagerly await your support and collaboration.

By Vincent Agumenu

Research Agronomist

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh